In my teaching of prophecy, I always say that the prophetic word of God not only reveals what the future holds, but prophecy is very practical as well. Our reading today will be a perfect example of that fact.Before we get into the "practical", let me take care of the "prophetic". Habakkuk was a prophet that had his ministry on the eve of the Babylonian captivity. Most likely he was foretelling the future events of the Jewish people during the latter years of Josiah.

There is not a lot known about Habakkuk except the fact that to him, the character of Jehovah God was revealed in terms of the highest spirituality. He alone of the prophets was most concerned that the "holiness of Jehovah" should be vindicated even to the extent that he would see that as a higher priority than Israel's escape from Jehovah's chastisement.

Habakkuk foretold the rise of the Chaldeans,chapter 1, verse 6and that they would be the instrument that God would use to discipline the Jewish people. Habakkuk considered himself a "watchman", one who would stand upon the wall or the tower to watch and see, and then warn the people.

Habakkuk takes this "watchmen mentality" into the spiritual realm as well, watching for the Lord's message and then warning the people, verse 1of our extended reading for today. As you read the 14 assigned verses for today you will get the flavor of the chastisement that the Jewish people will face because of their sin. Notice the "woes" in verses 6, 9 and 12.

Now, let’s take a look at the practical aspect of prophecy. Habakkuk is a perfect example of what our ministry should be - we also must be watchmen. I would imagine that if you are reading this devotional you have a great interest in prophecy and must have some knowledge of what the future holds. Therefore, as a watchman, you have "seen" - now "warn" the people.Verse 4relates to us how the Jewish people should have lived and Habakkuk exhorts them that they must "live by faith" - faith in God and His instructions and directions.

The last verse of our reading,verse 14, looks to the future time when the "glory of the Lord" will fill the earth. That is a future prophecy to be fulfilled during the Kingdom period when Christ "rules and reigns" from the Temple in Jerusalem.

However,Psalm 19 tells us we can witness "the glory of the Lord" today as we look into the heavens where His glory is declared. We can also observe His creation all around us.

Prophecy is indeed so practical.

PRAYER THOT: Help me to be the watchman you want me to be, hearing the prophetic message from your Word and warning the people.